Fall 2009 - Oregon Chapter Sierra Club

Mar ys Peak Group
MPG established 1970
THE BENCHMARK
www.oregon.sierraclub.org/groups/marys_peak
Roosevelt’s Challenge
Fall 2009
by Debra Higbee, MPG Political Chair
P
resident Franklin Roosevelt
was introduced to labor leader
Philip Randolph and asked him for
his opinion. Randolph said, “This
is what you should do. . .” and then
proceeded to describe a list of things.
In response Roosevelt replied,
“. . . go out and make me do it.”
Roosevelt knew that politicians
Debra Higbee
lead best when they are led by the
people. We saw a few examples of this in the
47th session of the Oregon legislature, where
environmental bills were introduced but didn’t make
it out of committee. Others made it out but faced
fierce opposition.
House Bill 3298 was one. A Sierra Club
backed bill to protect the Metolius River Basin as an
“Area of Critical State Concern,” the bill was to stop
the development of two destination resorts involving
hundreds of houses and condominiums near the
headwaters of the Metolius River in central Oregon.
At stake were ground and surface water,
endangered fish, and prime deer and elk habitat
in a sensitive ecosystem. It passed in the house, but
was voted down in the senate, losing by one vote.
However, the senators who voted against it received
an overwhelming volume of negative feedback. In
response, one key senator turned his vote around,
which caused it to pass. The bill moved on to
Governor Kulongoski, who signed it into law. This
important win would not have happened if we hadn’t
done as Roosevelt suggested.
continued on page 12
THIS ISSUE
h
Chair Retrospect, A Farewell . . . . . pg. 2
Leader Profile . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . pg. 3
MPG Outings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pgs. 4-7
Camping Trips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . pg. 8
Evening Programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . pg. 9
MPG ExCom Ballot . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . pg. 10
MPG Positions Open . . . . . . . . . . . pg. 11
Susan E. Miller Award . . . . . . . . . . . . pg.13
The Rhinoceros Aucklet . . . . . . . . . . pg. 14
On to the Boardwalk. . . . . . . . . . . . . pg. 16
Majestic Yellowstone . . . . . . . . . . . . . pg. 18
Earth Day Tours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . pg. 20
Memorial Day Camping Trip . . . . pg. 21
Neat Stuff for Sale! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pg. 22
Past Outings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . pg. 23
Get Involved! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . pg. 24
INSIDE:
Learn about
Rhinoceros Aucklet and
efforts to restore their
habitat and numbers on
Ano Nuevo Island.
see pg.14
Fall 2009
THE BENCHMARK
CHAIR RETROSPECT
A Farewell
Listening to leaders of many organizations,
from garden clubs to anglers groups, I hear
about declining memberships. People are
dropping from organizations like petals on
a fading flower. Where have all the flowers
gone? Electronic games, the computer, and the
television have robbed groups of their adherents
and workers. Sadly, the important socialization
we all need is becoming more difficult to find in
our society.
Yet, the Marys Peak Group continues to
hold on to its membership. Our cadre of
leaders remains active and involved. We have
recognized the need to continue reaching out to
our membership and providing a wide variety
of opportunities for engaging in the group’s
MPG
Executive Committee
Barry Wulff, Chair
Jane Luther, Vice Chair
Leslie Hogan, Secretary
Bob Custer
Doris deLespinasse
Bruce Encke
Ralph Nafziger
Denise Cooper, Treasurer
Debra Higbee, Political Chair
Kay Yates, Membership Chair
http://oregon.sierraclub.org/
groups/marys_peak
Barry Wulff
[email protected]
Lori Fluge-Brunker
Benchmark Publisher
[email protected]
M’Liss Runyon
Benchmark Designer
[email protected]
2. THE BENCHMARK
activities. We strive to make all of our activities
fun, stimulating and rewarding. The people you
meet on our outings are among the finest you’ll
meet anywhere.
I’ve been impressed with the dedication of
Marcia Shapiro, who organizes our evening
programs. With variety and adventure, we are
usually able to fill the Benton County library
room for each program. The success of Marcia’s
work is acknowledged by the fact that speakers
approach us looking for an opportunity to
present a program. This fall, we are starting with
a program on Namibia and will follow with a
program on trails in the Lebanon area of Linn
County.
The quality of our PDF formatted tri-annual Benchmark is impressive and among the best
newsletters that any arms of the Sierra Club
produce. Not only are the articles interesting to
read, but also we strive for timeliness and clarity
of writing. We can thank Lori Fluge-Brunker
and M’Liss Runyon for layout and publishing
excellence.
Our outings program is one of the
strongest in the country. For the past few
years, we have had annually more than 2,000
daily participations on our outings. Doris
deLespinasse does a splendid job nurturing and
organizing an impressive group of more than
30 trained and qualified outings leaders. We’re
offering nearly 100 outings a year, ranging
from visits to environmental friendly businesses
to overnight cross-country ski trips. Bob Custer,
Christy Stevens, Leslie Hogan, and David
Anderson, who organize our backpacking,
rafting, mid-week, and skiing activities, are
also to be commended. The variety of outings
offered for this coming autumn is impressive.
We welcome your participation.
Our Summer Solstice Galas at the Dancing
Oaks Garden have been among the best
attended in the Northwest. Many thanks to the
organizational efforts of Marilyn Hinds, Kay
Yates, Nancye and Jim Ballard, and Monika
Shepherd, and to all who pitched in to help
them. If you’ve been there, you know what
I’m writing about. The food, music, and
camaraderie are to be marveled at.
Marilyn Hinds, David Eckert, and Debra
Higbee have led our political and conservation
work over the years. We have made a difference
in elections. And we have planted trees for those
who come long after us to enjoy. There is much
to be done, and they will continue working
with us as we go down the road. We’ve had
great success by focusing on the positive in our
communities.
I’m
especially proud
of our trail work
organizers –
Tom Bucht,
Denise Nervik
and Margie
Powell. They
have organized
several trail
work parties
each year for
Barry Wulff
some time now
and forged
good working relationships with Benton County
Natural Areas and Parks, the City of Corvallis
Parks & Recreation, and the U.S. Forest Service.
Working in cooperation with these agencies, they
have organized work parties, sometimes with as
many as 30 people, to put in new trails and repair
and upgrade established trails. The pride that
goes with their work is a sight to behold.
Our treasury is sound, thanks to three fine
treasurers in the past ten years – Steve Ford,
Mike Brantley, and Denise Cooper. Last, but
not least, I commend Jane Luther, who keeps
track on spreadsheets of all of our activities and
member participation and their payments for our
extended outings and rafting trips. Without her
careful recording, we would be flying blind.
This will be my last column as MPG Chair. I
have learned a lot about managing a volunteer
organization, enjoyed many great moments in
the past ten years, and leaned on the support
of many wonderful people to make everything
possible. I hope you will support them in the
future. There are lots of little roles to play. The
MPG will be only as strong as the volunteering
efforts of its members. Let’s volunteer together
and keep the ball rolling. There is a place for
your participation. I want to make a special plea
to our younger members, your children and
grandchildren. The Marys Peak Group offers
multitudinous opportunities for teens and young
adults to learn and gain confidence.
~Barry Wulff, Chair
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THE BENCHMARK
Fall 2009
Leader Profile: Tom Bucht
A
s a kid in Massachusetts, Tom
Bucht often went for walks in the woods
with his parents and siblings, giving
him his first taste of wilderness, and of
blueberries his family often picked.
If you take a hike with Tom, he may
tell you about one of his greatest outdoor
adventures which took place on his first
backpack trip at the age of 17.
He and a neighbor friend went on a five
day trip into the White Mountains in New
Hampshire. His friend’s mom drove them
to the trail head and dropped them off.
Tom remembers that she was uneasy with
the boys being out of contact and in the
woods for days.
“The feeling of being ‘out there’ with
no car and being totally dependent on
supplies carried on your back was a new
and enlightening experience,” says Tom.
A creek near one campsite had a huge
boulder and a deep, clear pool below. Even
though the water was cold, Tom says he
could not resist jumping in.
That taste of wilderness stuck with him,
and today Tom enjoys hiking, skiing, and
trail building; activities he often leads for
the Marys Peak Group.
Tom became a leader for MPG because
he “observed the need for leaders and
Tom Bucht
gradually became one,” he said. He
encourages people to participate, saying
blue tinge of the noble firs and their
it helps them “gain an appreciation for
upright cones.”
the natural world and fosters an urge to
Tom sites the greenery and the fact that
protect that diminishing world.”
there’s always something new to see and
MPG Chair Barry Wulff greatly
discover as good reasons to head outdoors.
influenced and positively affected his
He also likes the social aspect of group
hiking, exploring and leading of outdoor
hiking.
activities, said Tom.
When Tom’s not playing
The feeling of being ‘out there’ with
“Barry and I made many,
outdoors, he spends his time
many trips exploring the back
no car and being totally dependent on indoors fixing computer problems
roads in the coast range,” he
and working on the occasional
supplies carried on your back was a
said. “For a time, I did not
electronic design.
new and enlightening experience.
realize that Barry was looking
He is currently helping a longfor potential group hiking
time
friend and business associate
places. I just enjoyed visiting
convert
his
1970 Karmin Ghia from gas to
“On a hike up to Bonn Cliffs, I could
the coast range. Before hiking with Barry,
electric. The car will have eight batteries,
it had never occurred to me that the coast see the cliffs way above and asked ‘are
four in front and four in back, when
we
really
going
up
there?’
It
seemed
range is a great nearby resource with
they’re finished.
unreachable from below,” remembered
many hiking opportunities; and most are
Tom. “The top of the cliffs were covered
“The project been an educational
not in any trail guides.”
in ripe blueberries, so I sat down and
experience,”
Tom says, one in which he
After experiencing the back road
started eating them, and in the bushes was has learned many things. “There are no
complexity of the coast range and
a small rabbit, unafraid. I picked up the
perfect solutions; lots of trade-offs to decide
unreliable maps, Tom decided to purchase rabbit–it was the softest creature I have
on. We hope to get 25 miles per charge, so
a GPS to assist in navigation. Since then,
ever touched.”
this is an ‘around town’ car only.”
his GPS has been a valuable tool in
Today, some of Tom’s favorite places
They hope to have the project done
scoping out potential hikes.
to visit are the Oregon Coast, the coastal
sometime in 2010, so if you’re in Corvallis,
Through Barry’s advice, Tom says, he
range, and the Cascades. “The East Ridge keep an eye out for an electric Karmin
has learned a great deal about group trip
trail on Marys Peak is a great one,” says
Ghia quietly rolling by.
planning and research, which he has
Tom. “You can really see the transition in
Then take a MPG hike with Tom, you
applied to various trips.
vegetation as you go up with the Douglas
won’t
be disappointed.
firs becoming noble firs higher up, then
“
”
the meadows at the top. I really like the
THE BENCHMARK 3.
Fall 2009
THE BENCHMARK
MPG SIERRA CLUB OUTINGS
SEPTEMBER–JANUARY, 2009-2010
Marys Peak Group outings welcome everyone who enjoys group activity and is
physically prepared for the particular event. Younger children and all whose pace
is slower are very welcome on the easier events (see the family-oriented walk on
October 25, as well as others marked “easy”). At the other end, vigorous hikers
will enjoy Grizzly Peak (Sept. 20) or Black Crater (Oct. 3). If you are not sure
whether you are ready for an event, please talk with the leader.
Contact the leader before each event. Space is often limited. Always fun, MPG
outings also provide opportunities to explore our natural environment, learning
more about the unique flora and fauna of our region and how they can be
preserved.
For additional outings and updates, see our weekly e-mail. Not on the e-mail list?
Send an e-mail to [email protected] to be added.
NEW to MPG OUTINGS?
MPG welcomes newcomers!
Come alone or bring a friend.
Non-members are
always welcome!
To receive weekly e-mails on
upcoming events and outings,
contact MPG at
[email protected].
IMPORTANT: For General Outing Policies, see page 7
Sunday, September 6 – Three Cascade Lakes.
We will explore 3 swimmable lakes located in the Douglas fir and
hemlock forests west of Three-Fingered Jack. The trail climbs along
the North Santiam River to Duffy Lake, then onto steep-shored
Mowich Lake with its forested island and sandy beach, before
backtracking to Santiam Lake with its wildflowers and reflection of
Jack. Moderate/difficult, 11-12 miles, with 1,100 feet of elevation
gain. Preregistration required; wilderness limit of 12. Meet at
the Wilkinson Hall parking lot (Arnold & 27th) for an early 8:00
a.m. departure. Contact leader: Robert Verhoogen, 745-5185 or
[email protected]
Thursday, September 17 – Sunrise Tree Farm.
We will visit the Sunrise Tree Farm in Philomath and learn how
Christmas trees grow, seeing sustainable farming and a topping
and shearing demonstration. Meet on First Street, behind Corvallis’s
Super-8 Motel, for a 12:45 p.m. departure. Contact Leader: Marilyn
Hinds, 541-929-7136 or [email protected]
Thursday-Monday, September 17-21 – Southern
Oregon Coast Lodge Trip. We’ll stay four nights in a
comfortable fishing lodge just north of Port Orford, and our
group will occupy the entire lodge. Each double room has its own
bathroom. Delicious light breakfast provided. The trip will include
moderate day hikes overlooking and along the Oregon Coast, to such
Friday-Sunday, September 11-13 – Waldo Lake
well-known areas as Cape Blanco, Cape Sebastian, and Blacklock
area camping trip. Waldo Lake is located about 65 miles
Point. Contact leaders: Jim and Nancye Ballard, 541/752-4441 or
southeast of Eugene in the Cascades at 5,414 feet. It is Oregon’s
[email protected]
second largest lake, with clear blue water. We will leave Friday
morning, September 11th and set up camp on or near the lake. We
Saturday, September 19 – Trail Work. Assist with
will hike Friday afternoon, Saturday, and Sunday morning, returning trail building or maintenance at Marys Peak. Bring work gloves,
Sunday afternoon, September 13th. Depending upon the interests
water and lunch. Depart at 8:30 a.m.; return mid-afternoon. See
of the group we will have hikes of moderate and difficult levels.
weekly e-mail or contact leaders for details, including meeting
Participants will bring their own tents and food. Early expression
place. Contact leaders: Margie Powell, Tom Bucht, 738-1333 or
of interest is encouraged so we can make appropriate camp ground
[email protected]
arrangements. Modest cost required to cover camping fees. Contact
Sunday, September 20 – Grizzly Peak. On this
leader: Bob Custer, 541/745-3994 or [email protected];
premier
Cascades hike, walk through mossy old growth by a gushing
Mike Neeley-Brown
stream to Pamelia Lake, then climb steadily up a mountain above
Saturday, September 12 – Beazell Memorial
the lake for a fantastic close-up view of Mt. Jefferson. Fall foliage,
Forest. At this beautiful woodland park in Kings Valley near
often stunning in this area, should be beginning to turn. Difficult,
Philomath, we’ll walk a loop, up cool shaded Plunkett Creek and
10 miles, with 2,700 feet of elevation gain. Meet at the Wilkinson
then to the top of the hill to the view of Marys Peak. Moderate, 4
Hall parking lot (Arnold & 27th) for an 8:00 a.m. departure, or ask
miles maximum, 700’ gain/loss. 1:00 p.m. Meet at the Wilkinson
leader for Salem departure time/place. Preregistration required;
Hall parking lot (Arnold & 27th) for a 1:00 p.m. departure. Contact wilderness limit of 12. Contact leader: Larry Davis, (503) 390-8210
leader: Randy Rasmussen, 541-745-5452, [email protected]
or [email protected]
4. THE BENCHMARK
continued on next page
THE BENCHMARK
MPG Club Outings (cont.)
Wednesday-Thursday, September 23-24 - Double
Hike-Campout: Scott Mt. and Tam McArthur Rim.
We’ll squeeze in two midweek hikes on two opposite sides of the
Three Sisters. Wednesday we’ll pass a number of lakes on our way to
climb Scott Mountain. Moderate, 8.2 miles, with 1,300 feet elevation
gain. After a night of “light” camping near Sisters at Cold Springs
Campground (dinner at a restaurant in Sisters), we’ll drive south
of town to Tam McArthur Rim for an almost “aerial overlook of
the Three Sisters.” The foliage should be ablaze. Moderate, 5 miles,
with 1,200 feet of elevation gain. 8:00 take-off time. Preregistration
required; wilderness limit of 12. Contact leaders: Leslie Hogan,
[email protected] or 541-924-0130; co-leader, Karl Harzell.
Sunday, September 27 – Beyond Ellmaker.
Normally this is just a rest stop on the way to the coast, but we’ll
make a loop exploring the back roads of this state park and the
adjoining Starker Forests lands. We will ford the shallow and narrow
Tum Tum River, then climb along Ellmaker Creek. Our return takes
us on overgrown roads with some trees to climb over or under, then
we descend to lower Ellmaker Creek via a different route. Moderate,
5 miles, with 600 feet of elevation gain. Meet at the Wilkinson Hall
parking lot (Arnold & 27th) for a 10:00 a.m. departure. Contact
leader: Tom Bucht, 738-1333 or [email protected]
Saturday, October 3 – Black Crater. On this hike near
the McKenzie Pass, climb through inactive volcanic areas built
by glacial ice as well as heat to central Oregon’s best view of the
Three Sisters and the McKenzie Pass lava flows. Very difficult climb
for experienced hikers only; 7.4 miles, with 2,500 feet of elevation
gain. Meet at the Wilkinson Hall parking lot (Arnold & 27th) for
an 8:00 a.m. departure. Preregistration required; wilderness limit of
12. Contact leaders: Irene and Armand Schoppy, 541-758-8591 or
[email protected]
Sunday, October 4 – Marys Peak East Ridge.
We’ll climb up from Conner’s Camp, with views over the coast
range, lunch at the summit, and return the way we came. Great
views from the top, from the ocean to the Cascades on a clear day.
Vine maples may be beginning to turn to their glorious yellow.
Meet at the Wilkinson Hall parking lot (Arnold & 27th) for a 10:00
a.m. departure. Contact leader: Mike Neeley-Brown, 541-752-6052,
[email protected]; Julie Arrington.
Saturday October 10 – Finley Wildlife Refuge.
Last fall’s walk on this refuge south of Corvallis was lovely, with
wonderful fall foliage and lots of natural features. Watch weekly
email for details of this year’s walk. Bring binoculars if you have
them. Meet at the Wilkinson Hall parking lot (Arnold & 27th) for
a 9:00 a.m. departure. Contact leader: Karl Hartzell, 758-2275 or
[email protected]
Fall 2009
Winter 2009
Sunday, October 11 – Clear Lake/Sahalie &
Koosah Falls. The stroll around Clear Lake (5.5 miles, with
200 feet of elevation gain) offers views of beautiful fall foliage, huge
springs, lava crossings, and old growth forests in a lovely mountain
setting. This will be combined via the McKenzie River Trail with
the loop around the river’s two grandest cascades, Sahalie and
Koosah Falls (2.6 miles, with 400 feet of elevation gain). Moderate,
total 9-10 miles. Meet at Wilkinson Hall parking lot for early 8:00
a.m. departure. Contact leader: Robert Verhoogen, 541 745-518 or
[email protected]
Wednesday, October 14 – ViewPlus Technologies,
Inc. “ViewPlus is recognized throughout the world as a leading
innovator in research and development of assistive technology
products for people with print and sensory disabilities.” We will visit
this amazing company right here in Corvallis. RSVP by
Oct. 5. Meet on First Street, behind Corvallis’s Super-8 Motel, for a
1:00 p.m. departure. Contact leader: Marilyn Hinds, 541-929-7136
or [email protected]
Saturday, October 17 – Trail Work Assist with
trail building or maintenance at Beazell Memorial Forest. Bring
work gloves, water and lunch; return mid-afternoon. Meet at
the Wilkinson Hall parking lot (Arnold & 27th) for an 8:30 a.m.
departure. Contact leaders: Margie Powell, Tom Bucht, Denise
Nervik, 752-8241 or [email protected]
Sunday October 18 – Dunn Forest Dog and
People Walk. With or without a dog, walk one of the loops in
this research forest north of Corvallis. Dogs must be under leash or
voice control at all times, be well-behaved and non-aggressive to
people and other dogs. Moderate, 6-7 miles, with up to 1,200 feet of
elevation gain. Meet at the Wilkinson Hall parking lot (Arnold &
27th) for a 10:00 a.m. departure. Contact leaders: Kay Yates, 7540463 or [email protected]; Monika Shepherd, 754-5994.
Saturday, October 24 – Silver Falls Geology Walk.
The Canyon Trail to 10 waterfalls is one of Oregon’s premier sights.
We’ll walk the Canyon and Ridge trails, discussing the geology of
this special place, and making a stop by the fire in the classic lodge.
Good rain gear and water-resistant boots or sturdy walking shoes
are essential. Moderate, 7.1 miles with 1,000 feet of elevation gain.
Preregistration required; number limited to 10. Contact leader to
register and for departure time and places: Ralph Nafziger, 541-9264245 or [email protected]
continued on next page
THE BENCHMARK 5.
Fall 2009
THE BENCHMARK
MPG Club Outings (cont.)
Sunday, October 25 – Kid-Friendly Walk on
Clemens Park Loop. Join us as we stroll through lovely
Clemens County Park near Alsea on a family-friendly excursion.
This interpretative trail along the North Fork of the Alsea River
will introduce us to the conditions necessary for a healthy salmon
habitat. If our timing works out well with the fall rains, we may
see some salmon on their migration. We will see large Pacific yew
trees, Douglas firs, grand firs, raptors and sword ferns up to 6 feet
in diameter. Afterwards, we may stop at a nearby hatchery. Easy,
1 nearly level mile; could be muddy. Meet at the Wilkinson Hall
parking lot (Arnold & 27th) for a 1:00 p.m. departure. Contact
leaders: Julie Arrington, 541-752-605 or, Julie.seahorse@gmail.
com; Mike Neeley-Brown. (Children must be accompanied by a
responsible adult; a liability release is required from a parent or
guardian. Leaders can tell you about details.)
Sunday, November 1 – Henline Mountain and
Falls. The trail to 120-ft Henline Falls gently follows the bed
of a long-abandoned road to an old silver mine (easy, 1.8 round
trip miles, with 200 feet of elevation gain). Then, starting from a
different trail head, the “exhilarating” path switchbacks up into
the forest, traverses a large rock slide, and then climbs steadily to a
lookout point with views across the N. Santiam valley to Mt. Jefferson
and other peaks (difficult, 5.6 round trip miles, with 2,200 feet of
elevation gain). Meet at Wilkinson Hall parking lot for early 8:00
a.m. departure. Note: Daylight savings time ended last night!
Preregistration required; number may be limited. Contact leader:
Robert Verhoogen, 541-745-5185 or [email protected]
Saturday, November 7 – Tum Tum River to Ridge
Loop. We have obtained a special permit from Starker Forests
to hike on this private tree farm. Our route follows roads through
diverse scenery, from quaint bridges across babbling streams,
through shady green forests, along a hillside meadow, to a ridge with
a broad view of the Coast Range. The hike includes some sustained
elevation gains, and there could be muddy areas, so it would be
helpful to be in good physical shape. Moderate/Difficult, 8.8 miles,
1,300 feet elevation gain. Meet at the Wilkinson Hall parking lot
for a 9:00 AM departure. Contact Leader: Jane Luther at 758-8279 or
[email protected].
Sunday, November 8 – Drift Creek Falls Plus.
We’ll visit the spectacular suspension bridge over Drift Creek Falls,
plus a couple of other special places along the coast north of
Newport. Note: This is not the Drift Creek Wilderness, which we
have visited in the past, but a small, dramatic natural area near
Lincoln City.) Bring a light lunch or snacks; we’ll stop in Newport
for chowder after the hike. Easy, not more than 5 miles, with 500 feet
of elevation gain. Meet at the Wilkinson Hall parking lot (Arnold &
27th) for an 8:00 a.m. departure; possible late return. Contact leader:
Ray Drapek, 541-754-7364 or [email protected]
6. THE BENCHMARK
Sunday, November 15 – Santiam Wagon Road to
House Rock. Now a lovely trail near the South Santiam River,
the Santiam Wagon Road was a major link across the Cascades
in the late 1800s. It was also the crossing point for the first transcontinental auto trip. We’ll walk from a point near the one-time
Mountain House Restaurant to House Rock Campground and
impressive House Rock Falls. Easy/moderate, 4.8 miles, with 300 feet
of elevation gain. Meet at the Wilkinson Hall parking lot (Arnold &
27th) for a 9:00 a.m. departure; possible late return. Contact leader:
Ralph Nafziger, 541-926-4245 or [email protected]
Saturday, November 21 – Opal Creek to Jawbone
Flats. Late fall is a great time to visit one of the last great ancient
forest reserves of western Oregon. Gravel road one way, trail the
other. At the end, a restored rustic mining camp. Moderate, 7 miles
with 500 feet of elevation gain. Meet at the Wilkinson Hall parking
lot in Corvallis for an 8:30 a.m. departure. Contact leader: Randy
Rasmussen,541-745-5452 or [email protected]
Friday, November 27 – Walk Off the Tofu (turkey
eaters very welcome). A brisk loop walk on Vineyard
Mountain roads from the Lewisburg Saddle in McDonald Forest.
Good well-drained gravel roads; pleasant forests; occasional vistas
over the Coast Range. Perhaps a detour down the newly rebuilt Old
Growth Trail. Moderate, 7 miles, with 650 feet of elevation gain.
Meet at the Lewisburg Saddle for a 1:00 p.m. departure. Contact
leaders: Irene and Armand Schoppy, 541-758-8591 or iameyers@
yahoo.com
Saturday, November 28 – Woodland Walk near
Corvallis. We’ll walk in one of the lovely woodland parks near
Corvallis. Probably moderate level. Watch the weekly email for
details. Contact leader: Lelia Barlow, [email protected] (e-mail
preferred); 758-8279
Saturday, December 5 – Sulphur Springs to
McCulloch. We’ll climb up the quickest route to this viewpoint
atop McDonald Forest’s highest peak. If weather cooperates, we’ll
have views of the Willamette Valley and foothills, perhaps even
the Cascade Peaks draped in new snow. Back by the same route if
weather’s bad, but may elect to make this a loop if it’s reasonably dry.
A lower hike at Peavy Arboretum if weather’s really bad. Moderate/
difficult, 6-7.8 miles, with 1,700 feet of elevation gain. Meet at
the Wilkinson Hall parking lot (Arnold & 27th) for a 10:00 a.m.
departure. Contact leader: Bruce Encke & Loretta Rivard, 541-7536884 or [email protected]
continued on next page
THE BENCHMARK
Fall 2009
MPG Club Outings (cont.)
Saturday, December 12 – Marys Peak North
Ridge/Tie Trail Loop. On this lower loop, we go up the North
Ridge, across the Tie Trail, down the East Ridge, and return on
Woods Creek Road. Old growth cedar, fir, and hemlock surround
our route. If weather’s great, we may venture to the top. If it’s
really bad, we’ll substitute something lower and shorter. Difficult,
9 miles, possibly more, with 2,300 feet of elevation gain. Meet at
the Wilkinson Hall parking lot (Arnold & 27th) for a 9:00 a.m.
departure. Contact leader: Doris deLespinasse, 541-753-4775 or
[email protected]
Saturday-Sunday, January 9-10 – Overnight Ski.
Take in spectacular views of Cascade peaks on this overnight crosscountry ski trip. We’ll leave Corvallis about 9:00 a.m. on Saturday,
ski 4 miles up a moderately inclined trail to the Mountain View
shelter, set up camp, and perhaps build an igloo. The shelter has five
sleeping benches, an outhouse, wood stove, and plenty of firewood.
The following morning we’ll explore some of the trails in the area,
then head for home. This trip is suitable for intermediate level skiers.
Contact leader: David Anderson, 758-7602 or [email protected]
Saturday, December 26 – Ski, Snowshoe, or Hike.
What we do will depend on snow levels, so watch the weekly email for
details. Contact leader: Lelia Barlow, [email protected] (e-mail
preferred); 758-8279
Friday, January 1 – New Years Day Walk. A New Year
walk is a Marys Peak Group tradition, usually followed by a social
gathering – watch the weekly email for details. If the weather’s not
too bad, we’ll again go up a tree-lined gravel road from Oak Creek
to Dimple Hill, with views over the valley – perhaps the Cascades,
should we be very lucky. In really bad weather, we’ll walk in the
Skyline/Witham Hill area. Moderate, not more than 7 miles, with
1,100 feet of elevation gain. Meet at MLK Park parking area, on
Walnut, across from Elmwood (formerly Walnut Park). 1:00 p.m.
departure. Contact leader: Doris deLespinasse, 753-4775 or ddeles@
proaxis.com
Marys Peak Group welcomes all people to their outings program. However, the
leader may deny participation in a particular outing if the participant is in any way
unprepared. This includes but is not limited to physical fitness and health,
inadequate footwear and other clothing or gear, or inadequate experience with the particular activity.
General Outing Policy
ARRIVING FOR AN OUTING: Please contact the leader before an outing. Also, please arrive at the meeting point a few minutes early; we leave
on time. Unless otherwise stated, carpool departures are from the OSU campus in Corvallis, at a parking lot between Wilkinson Hall and the
Asian Cultural Center, Arnold and 27th Streets. Contact the leader to arrange to meet the group at a point other than the stated start point.
CARPOOLS: Suggested driver reimbursement is $2.50 for every hour driven; perhaps more when the roads are difficult or the number of riders is
small. This is subject to change with gas price fluctuations.
DOGS: Dogs, other than certified assistance dogs, are allowed only on designated dog walks.
WHAT TO WEAR; WHAT TO BRING: Dress in layers appropriate for expected weather, with sturdy boots or walking shoes, usually rain gear,
often hat and gloves, no jeans or heavy cottons for extended outings. Bring water, sunscreen, snacks, lunch if outing starts in the morning, any
medications you might require.
LIABILITY WAIVER: All participants must sign a standard Sierra Club liability waiver before each outing. To read the liability waiver before you
choose to participate on an outing, please see http://www.sierraclub.org/outings/chapter/forms/, or contact the National Sierra Club Outings
Department at (415) 977-5528 for a printed version. A parent or legal guardian must sign a form for a person under 18. Neither the Sierra Club
nor the Marys Peak Group is responsible for participants during the trips to and from the trailhead.
PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY FOR HEALTH & FITNESS: It is the participant’s responsibility to evaluate his or her fitness for any Marys
Peak Group activity. Please talk with your leader if you have any doubts about whether you are ready for a particular outing. Please bring any
medications you may need. Let your leader know if you have any heath conditions which may be a problem during the trip. Examples might be
diabetes, insect bite allergies, or heart conditions.
THE BENCHMARK 7.
Fall 2009
THE BENCHMARK
MPG CAMPING TRIPS
SEPTEMBER–JANUARY, 2009-2010
Marys Peak Group offers several camping trips and one lodge trip. Currently scheduled ones are below, but a few additional
informal camping/hiking trips may be added; watch the weekly e-mail. Space is limited on each outing. These often fill months in
advance, so you are encouraged to contact the leader early if one interests you. The cost to participate in an extended outing varies
with the destination and activity.
Friday-Sunday, September 11-13 – Waldo Lake
area camping trip. Waldo Lake is located about 65
miles southeast of Eugene in the Cascades at 5,414 feet. It is
Oregon’s second largest lake, with clear blue water. We will
leave Friday morning, September 11th and set up camp on or
near the lake. We will hike Friday afternoon, Saturday, and
Sunday morning, returning Sunday afternoon, September
13th. Depending upon the interests of the group we will
have hikes of moderate and difficult levels. Participants will
bring their own tents and food. Early expression of interest
is encouraged so we can make appropriate camp ground
arrangements. Modest cost required to cover camping fees.
Contact leader: Bob Custer, 541/745-3994 or laststand@
exchangenet.net; Mike Neeley-Brown
Thursday-Monday, September 17-21 –
Southern Oregon Coast Lodge Trip. We’ll stay four
nights in a comfortable fishing lodge just north of Port Orford,
and our group will occupy the entire lodge. Each double room
has its own bathroom. Delicious light breakfast provided. The
trip will include moderate day hikes overlooking and along
the Oregon Coast, to such well-known areas as Cape Blanco,
Cape Sebastian, and Blacklock Point. Contact leaders: Jim and
Nancye Ballard, 541/752-4441 or [email protected]
8. THE BENCHMARK
Wednesday-Thursday, September 23-24
- Double Hike-Campout: Scott Mt. and Tam
McArthur Rim. We’ll squeeze in two midweek hikes on
two opposite sides of the Three Sisters. Wednesday we’ll pass
a number of lakes on our way to climb Scott Mountain.
Moderate, 8.2 miles, with 1,300 feet elevation gain. After a night
of “light” camping near Sisters at Cold Springs Campground
(dinner at a restaurant in Sisters), we’ll drive south of town to
Tam McArthur Rim for an almost “aerial overlook of the Three
Sisters.” The foliage should be ablaze. Moderate, 5 miles, with
1,200 feet of elevation gain. 8:00 take-off time. Preregistration
required; wilderness limit of 12. Contact leaders: Leslie Hogan,
[email protected] or 541-924-0130; co-leader, Karl Harzell.
Saturday-Sunday, January 9-10 – Overnight
Ski. Take in spectacular views of Cascade peaks on this
overnight cross-country ski trip. We’ll leave Corvallis about 9:00
a.m. on Saturday, ski 4 miles up a moderately inclined trail to
the Mountain View shelter, set up camp, and perhaps build an
igloo. The shelter has five sleeping benches, an outhouse, wood
stove, and plenty of firewood. The following morning we’ll
explore some of the trails in the area, then head for home. This
trip is suitable for intermediate level skiers. Contact leader:
David Anderson, 758-7602 or [email protected]
THE BENCHMARK
Fall 2009
MPG EVENING PROGRAMS
OCTOBER–NOVEMBER, 2009
Nambia: Land of Open Spaces
Thursday, Oct. 29, 7 p.m., Corvallis/Benton
County Public Library
In April 2009, a group of 12 adventurers
from the Willamette Valley traveled to
Namibia, a country situated on the west coast
of southern Africa. Namibia is a land of striking
geographic contrasts: deserts, grassy plains,
granite mountains. Tasha Wulff will recount the
experiences of the group as they traveled 2,500
miles from the Fish River Canyon, to the red
dunes of Sossuvlei, to Etosha National Park,
one of southern Africa’s finest game reserves.
Build Lebanon Trails: A Community Partnership for Health and the Outdoors
Thursday, Nov. 19, 7 p.m., Corvallis/Benton
County Public Library
The Build Lebanon Trails project is an
outstanding example of how diverse interests
in a relatively small community can come
together to create an extensive project that
benefits the entire community. Mollie Kerins,
Rodney Sell, Nancy Kirks, and Mark Swenson
relate their experiences in working together to
create a system of more than 50 miles of trails
in the greater Lebanon area. They will describe
their project and how they built a coalition,
developed a comprehensive plan, involved local
residents, including young people, and obtained
funding for the project, which was awarded
the 2007 Distinguished Service Award for
“Community Group of the Year.”
THE BENCHMARK 9.
THE BENCHMARK
Fall 2009
M ar y s Pea k G rou p , Sier ra Cl u b
2009 E xec u ti v e C om m ittee E lec tion s
MPG Sierra Club Executive Committee has three positions open this year. Elected candidates will serve two-year terms. Below
are the five candidates and their statements. To place your vote for your choice of three candidates, check the corresponding
boxes on the attached form at the bottom of the page and mail to the address below by November 1. Or, place your vote via
e-mail to Denise Cooper at [email protected].
Bob Custer, incumbent~Member
since 1999. Has led hikes and backpacks for
MPG, and served as the backpack chair for
a number of years. Has extensive experience
with environmental issues. Wants to serve
because he believes MPG outdoor programs
are successful, valuable and should be
continued and expanded.
Ray Drapek~Member for 10 years.
Trip leader for the last five years. Led MPG
Pacific Crest Trail backpack for the last two
summers, the McKenzie River rafting trip,
miscellaneous day hikes, and cross country
ski trips. Has enjoyed the benefits of the work
done by past ExCom members and feels it
is his turn to help out. Has over 10 years
experience working on the board of the Audubon Society of Corvallis.
Helped to establish the Hesthavn Nature Center.
Debra Higbee~member since 1987.
Has held many positions in the Sierra Club.
Presently the political chair for MPG. Served on
Eugene Many River ExCom for years. If elected,
would like to engage in the process of being
environmentally aware and acting on that
awareness. Issues of interest include energy,
politics, and helping others join in the MPG
goal towards a healthy environment.
Nancy Rockwell~Member since
2007. Has volunteered for the SOLV beach
cleanup with MPG. Volunteer with the Salem
Chemeketans on trail maintenance and as a
hike leader and coordinator. Has long been
interested in environmental issues. Served
15 years as the recycling coordinator of her
elementary school. Serves on the recycling team
with The Assistance League of Salem. Wants to
serve because it would be interesting to learn the behind the scenes
workings of the MPG. Hopes to give useful input to the organization.
Robert Verhoogen~member since
1985. MPG day outing leader. Actively
follows media coverage to stay abreast of
environmental issues. Attends lectures and
presentations on environmental subjects.
Wants to continue to provide a fresh
perspective on how MPG functions, with
greater emphasis on communicating among
members and more even composition of day outing groups.
Please check the box adjacent to your three choices only. All ballots must be received by November 1 (members only, please).
£ Bob Custer, incumbent
£ Ray Drapek
£ Debra Higbee
£ Nancy Rockwell
£ Robert Verhoogen
Mail form to: MPG Elections, PO Box 863, Corvallis, OR. 97339. Electronic votes may be sent via e-mail to:
[email protected], with MPG ballot on the subject line. All ballots must be received Nov. 1.
10. THE BENCHMARK
THE BENCHMARK
Fall 2009
MPG Positions Open
We need caring, dedicated people to help the Marys Peak Group’s efforts to develop in a
number of crucial areas:
• Political team members – Would you be willing to become involved in political issues relating to the environment or
supporting a candidate for election? How about engaging in lobbying? Contact MPG Political Chair Debra Higbee at
[email protected].
• Conservation/Sustainability Chair – Are you an organizer who is interested in environmental issues? We need you to
help develop a team to attend meetings of government agencies to monitor their activities and testify at hearings, as well
as come up with and implement creative local conservation projects.
• Membership Chair – Do you like to communicate with people? Are you able to organize tabling events? Help assure the
future of the environment by getting more people interested and involved in MPG activities.
If you would like to volunteer, or have further questions on any of these efforts, contact Barry Wulff at
[email protected], or 541-929-6272.
Clear Lake Trail, Cascade Mountains, Oregon. Photo by Lori Fluge-Brunker.
THE BENCHMARK 11.
Fall 2009
THE BENCHMARK
continued from front page
I bring up Roosevelt’s important insight because
Oregon’s 48th legislative session will be starting soon, and I
believe we, in the Marys Peak Group, can make a difference,
especially if we take Roosevelt’s advice.
There will be important environmental issues to keep
track of during the next session. In particular, there are two issues
that our political representatives especially need our help with–
which I believe are the definitive environmental issues of our
time–global warming and energy issues.
Both are
integrally related, and
our representatives failed
in the last session to pass
important energy and
greenhouse gas legislation.
They eliminated a bill
setting limits on liquefied
natural gas. They passed
a pork-laden, car-centric
transportation package that
promotes costly sprawl.
They rolled back renewable
energy standards and failed
to pass a cap-and-trade
bill, responding instead to
the pressures of corporate
lobbyists. Nevertheless,
as irrefutable scientific
research has revealed, these
important issues demand
our immediate action.
Politicians will say, as they did last session, that we
cannot afford to tackle environmental problems in a time of
double-digit unemployment and rising prices. However, this
is viewing it from the
perspective of fear–from
within a bubble, outside
of nature’s systems.
Alternately, from the
perspective of opportunity,
unemployment and rising
prices are solved with a
“systems” mind-set.
Metolius River and Mt. Jefferson. Photo: Oregon Department of Land
Conservation and Development Web site.
In response to this need for action, two paths have
presented themselves. One is the path of an energy renaissance
brought on by research and innovation, supported by public and
private incentives with continual feedback of what works and what
doesn’t.
Such a path calls for legislation that curtails
subsidization of coal, oil, and our old way of doing business, and
supports new innovative solutions. This path requires a committed
and aware public that understands the urgent need.
The second path is to continue what we’ve been doing,
and stop progressive ideas through inaction and denial. This
requires a silent, unaware public not included in the scientific
discoveries and the decision-making process. The second path is
the one much of society has been on for many years.
12. THE BENCHMARK
However as with any problem, whether it is personal,
societal, or national, it can be viewed from the perspective of fear
or of opportunity. Politics is a process of solving problems. Too
often politicians attempt to solve problems from the perspective of
fear. However, viewing problems as opportunities will open us to a
wider array of solutions that fear closes us to.
This mind-set
is an ecological, realworld one that includes
the environment within
the solution. Solving
problems outside of
an environmental
perspective is not
reality, and as we have
experienced this is a
short-term solution. We
are not outside of nature
or the environment.
If we have the courage to see the world as it is, we will see
the opportunity that appears when the environment is part of the
solution and is seen as our economic base. We will see how nature
uses energy. We will see how it wards off entropy, the opposite of
wise energy use. And we will realize that in nature, wise energy
users are rewarded with survival.
So how will we in the Marys Peak Group rise to
Roosevelt’s challenge? We will keep track of good environmental
bills, lobby our representatives in support of these bills, keep track
of how they vote on them, and hold them accountable. Please join
us in discovering the many ways we can “go out and make them
do it.” If you’re interested in becoming involved, please contact
me at [email protected].
THE BENCHMARK
Fall 2009
Sierra Club Service Award
SUSAN E. MILLER NATIONAL AWARD
Goes to Barry Wulff
The Marys Peak Group’s own Barry
Wulff was selected to receive the
Sierra Club’s 2009 Susan E. Miller
Award, which honors administrative
contributions to groups, chapters and
regional entities. The award will be
presented on September 26 in
San Francisco at the Club’s annual
dinner.
Barry has been chairman of the Marys Peak
Group since 1999, and under his leadership
this relatively small group has expanded to
well over 2,000 members who participate
in a large number of diverse outings and
conservation activities. This growth and
activity has been primarily due to Barry’s
contagious enthusiasm and creative
innovations.
Few people in this area have done more to
increase awareness of the environment and the
need for preserving it, and who has reached so
many others than has Barry Wulff. Since he is
retiring from the MPG chairmanship after ten
vital years in that position, we are thrilled that
he will finally be officially recognized for his
huge contributions.
Congratulations, Barry!
THE BENCHMARK 13.
Fall 2009
THE BENCHMARK
Acerorhinca Moncerata
the Rhinoceros Auklet
by Lon Otterby
If you have visited the Oregon Coast Aquarium,
you have probably seen some of my favorite critters, the
rhinoceros auklets, pigeon guillemots, and the black
oystercatchers that nest on the islands and cliffs off the
Eastern Pacific Coast.
Since retiring as a toolmaker and manufacturing
engineer in 2000, I have had the extraordinary good fortune
to volunteer as a field biologist with young scientists from
Point Reyes Bird Observatory and OIKONOS, working
with and studying these and other marine birds that make
their living in and on the ocean. My tasks were taking
weekly censuses of cliff nesting pelagic cormorants on the
mainland, and making overnight trips to Año Nuevo Island
off the San Mateo County coast in Northern California to
count the marine birds and their nesting success during the
Ano Nuevo Island off the San Mateo County coast
spring and summer breeding season.
in Northern California.
This bird’s story
begins in the El Niño
to the island. Every
years of 1997 and
Zodiac trip to the
1998. Storms lashed
island meant carrying
Año Nuevo Island
all our gear in dry
that winter, wiping
bags for three to four
all vegetation and
people per boatload.
most of the soil off
We had to clear the
the top surface of the
Zodiac launch area of
island, leaving the
elephant seals, launch
sandstone substrate.
the Zodiac at high
T h e s e
tide because of the
w o n d e r f u l
shallow depth in the
rhinoceros auklets,
channel, pound on
which are medium
the sides of the Zodiac
sized puffins, lost
continually all the
90 percent of their
way to island to warn
nesting burrows.
off the thousands of
Their numbers
California seal lions
plummeted during
surfing the channel,
the counts the
and clear the landing
following breeding
zone of elephant seals.
season. The rhinos
As we launched
A Rhinoceros Aucklet at Ano Nuevo Island.
rebounded slightly in
a
n
d
landed the
1999 and 2000, but never were able to sustain their previous
Zodiac,
leopard
sharks
would
swarm
our
feet
on
both sides of
population numbers. The Cassin’s auklets, a related species,
the
channel.
On
landing,
we
carefully
climbed
the
20 foot cliff,
almost disappeared completely from the island, with only 10
cleared
the
sea
lions
from
the
top
of
the
island,
and
moved
swiftly
birds at last count.
to the old Coast Guard barn with a dry bag on top of our heads
Two plans for recovery emerged during brainstorming to ward off the swarming Western gulls protecting their nest sites.
sessions the fall and winter of 2000-2001. The first plan
Once in the barn, we stripped off the wet suits, got dressed,
involved bringing several tons of dirt, plants, and hemp mesh
and found our bicycle helmets that we wore for protection the
14. THE BENCHMARK
continued on next page
THE BENCHMARK
Fall 2009
continued from page 14
out on the ground in 2 inch deep guano along the mist nets
whole time on the island. We laid out the new dirt, covered
with our heads against the support poles waiting for a bird to
it with the hemp matting, cut holes for planting, and planted
hit. Surprisingly, I only fell asleep twice doing this, once to
the seedlings. Then we surveyed the damage from the El Niño
be awakened by a brown pelican hitting my net. This pelican
storms to the nesting burrows again and found the numbers
had about 50 anchovies in its bill that it promptly dumped
to be worse than we had first believed. On top of that, as the
all down my front as I picked it up to release it from the net.
weeks passed, the brown pelicans and the California sea lions
With no shower or change available, everyone avoided me for
destroyed almost all of our work to replant the island. The
the rest of that trip.
other bad news was that without plants to hold the dirt, the
weight of the sea lions was crushing the remaining burrows.
As the rhino auklets hit the net, we collected all the fish
they had in their grooved bills, weighed
We then petitioned the
and measured them, fitted them with
Feds, the California State Fish
a leg band, and released them with a
and Game, and the University
toss into the night air. The fish they
of California Reserve System to
were carrying during the lean years
implement our second plan. They
were almost always anchovies. Once
approved because of the listing
in a while, they would have a juvenile
status of both the rhinoceros
lantern fish. The anchovies were almost
and Cassin’s auklets.The agencies
always way too big for the chicks to
were concerned that we would
swallow, so we would need to check all
disturb the colonies of marine
the nest boxes and pull the anchovies
mammals on the island during
out of the throats of choking chicks.
the restoration project.
Unfortunately, we would find chicks
We built 90 wooden nest
that had choked to death during the
boxes with removable lids and
times we were not on the island to help.
4-inch diameter holes in one side.
In 2005-2007, California’s Marine
We buried these boxes (with a
Life Protection Act was implemented,
large rock on the lid) near other
and the waters around Año Nuevo
existing natural burrows, inserted
Island were designated a “no take”
a 3-4 foot long underground ABS
area. By last fall, numbers of juvenile
plastic pipe in the box, and dug
rockfish had rebounded somewhat,
an access opening at the end of
and the bird populations were up a bit,
the pipe.
with 205 nesting Rhinoceros Auklets.
The next spring, with crossed
Interestingly, I don’t know how we came
fingers, we began checking on
up with an odd number for this count.
the boxes when the rhinos had
Lon
Otterby
This year, disaster struck
returned for the breeding season.
unaccountably and the oceans were
By the end of the season, we had
empty. There has been a large die-off of Brandt’s cormorants
birds in 80 of the boxes, had successfully fledged chicks in
and California sea lions. The Steller’s sea lions, the northern
48, and had only five of the boxes crushed by Sea Lions. On
fur seals, and the elephant seals seem to be doing okay at Año,
top of this success, the Cassin’s had returned to their smaller
maybe because their food sources are further off shore. The
boxes as well.
funding for the research with Año’s marine birds has dried up,
We were feeling pretty good at this point, only to get
so I don’t know their status this year.
kicked in the teeth again. The next two springs we had almost
I miss those little guys with their little horns, all wide-eyed
no northwest winds to start upwelling and bring nutrients to the
coming out of their burrows for the first time. Working with
surface along the California current. Along with over fishing,
them was a great adventure for a few years. I have a PDF file of
the lack of upwelling brought about a collapse in juvenile
the research from 2007 from PRBO, should anyone want more
rockfish, the primary prey of the auklets.
information on the project. The young scientists of OIKONS
However, there were lots of anchovies around, and the
and PRBO continue to do amazing work with marine birds,
desperate parent birds turned to the anchovies to feed their
including three of my other favorite birds; the black-footed
young. The parents take turns incubating the eggs and feeding
albatross, the sooty shearwater, and the northern fulmar.
the young. They must fly into and out of the burrows at night
For additional information, go to: http://www.oikonos.org/
to avoid the predatory Western gulls . In the spring, we would
projects/ano.htm, or, http://www.prbo.org/cms/149.
set up our eight-foot high mist nets (nets made from mesh
that is invisible to the birds) from 9 p.m. till midnight five
times in June and July. We would space ourselves, stretching
THE BENCHMARK 15.
Fall 2009
THE BENCHMARK
ON TO THE BOARDWALK
Story & photos by Leslie & Jim Hogan
Wetlands, sometimes called
swamps, bogs, marshes, or swales,
depending upon your inferential intention,
are abundant in the soggy Pacific Northwest.
They are difficult to walk in much of
the year. Without some sort of elevated
walkways, we might never enter these spongy
grasslands and mucky woods. But wetlands
are just too interesting and beautiful to
ignore, so we build boardwalks.
In the Corvallis area there are
a number of boardwalks worth visiting.
The Bob Frenkel Boardwalk in
the Jackson/ Frazier Wetland is a
good place to start. Though many
agencies and individuals were
needed to see the building of this
boardwalk to completion and are
still involved in its management,
Bob Frenkel is credited with the
preservation of this vast acreage.
Located in north Corvallis, you
can find it at the end of Lancaster
Street, off Conifer Boulevard two
blocks west of Cheldelin Middle
School. This quiet space on the
edge of town features more than
70 species of birds and 300 species
of flowering plants. It is a loop walk twothirds of a mile in length with observation
decks, an information board and a seasonal
guarantee of hearing the haunting notes of
red-winged blackbirds.
A much smaller and less secluded
boardwalk can be found in west Corvallis
at Sunset Park-Dunawi Creek at the corner
of 45th Street and Country Club Road.
The area is a restored wetland the size of a
sacrificed softball field, designed to protect
the Dunawi Creek ecosystem. The half-mile
pathway, also a loop, combines compacted
gravel and a boardwalk made of recycled
plastic wood. The path takes you over a
mitigated pond, along side an ash woods
16. THE BENCHMARK
and through an open area of extensive
native plantings, still young and growing.
Not too far away from Sunset
Park is The Mary’s River Natural Park on
Brooklane Drive. From highway 20 near
Parker Stadium, turn south at the light onto
Brooklane and go nine-tenths of a mile.
Turn left into an almost hidden entrance
to an unkempt gravel parking area. The
boardwalk across the open wetland, which
in the summer has the feel of a mid-western
prairie, begins at an information kiosk a
Cattails at Bob Frenkel Boardwalk.
little in and to the south of the parking area.
The walk takes you along the edge of a 74acre parcel of winter marshes and summer
grasslands brimming with Queen Ann’s Lace
and territorial hummingbirds and finishes
at a platform near the Mary’s River, unseen
down a steep embankment. Turn around
and return the same way.
Out of town but still an easy drive
away is Finley Wildlife Refuge. Travel south
10 miles from Corvallis to milepost 93 on
Highway 99W. Turn west on Finley Refuge
Road. Watch for the refuge entrance sign
on the west side of the road. Follow refuge
signs for nearly two miles to a sign on the
left for the Homer Campbell Memorial Trail.
Jim and Leslie Hogan.
Homer Campbell was an ardent Audubon
member and environmentalist, and his
namesake boardwalk is another out-andback boardwalk high off the ground through
thick woods hung profusely with old man’s
beard. There is such a swampy
feel to the place one expects to see
alligator lurking below. Instead, on
a recent walk, we surprised a fully
racked buck and its mate. They
madly thrashed their way through
the undergrowth to escape our
intrusion.
The walkway takes you 1,700
feet through the Muddy Creek flood
plain. At the end is an observation
blind overlooking Cabell marsh,
a favorite habitat for large flocks
of migratory waterfowl, plenty of
heron, and numbers of birds of
prey.Most of the refuge trails are
closed from November through
March to protect wintering dusky Canada
geese, but the boardwalk remains open all
year. Doing an about face and
driving east and north from Corvallis, two
boardwalks can be found in the Ankeny
National Wildlife Refuge. From Albany,
drive 10 miles north on I-5 to exit 243,
Ankeny Hill Road. Drive west 0.25 mile to an
intersection of Ankeny Hill Road and Wintel
Road. Turn left on Wintel Road and travel
two miles to the trail head for Rail Trail
Loop on the left. The boardwalk serpentines
through ash woods to a blind overlooking
a pond that grows and shrinks with the
seasons. The walk then carries on, bridging
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THE BENCHMARK
Fall 2009
continued from pg.16
pond and marsh. Duck viewing here is superb. One can continue
the walk on a grassy dike or return by the boardwalk.
Just six-tenths of a mile to the left as you exit onto Wintel
Road is yet another boardwalk, shorter, to be sure, but it carries
one over Frog Pond to an artfully camouflaged blind that allows
secluded viewing over three mighty marshes and a pond. Not only
fowl, but beaver as well, can be sighted at dusk on the ponds and
backwaters of this area.
Though the farthest away, the Dr. Beemer Boardwalk is a
find. It starts at the northeast corner of the Agate Beach parking lot
on the east side of Ocean View Drive. Drive north through Newport;
turn left at the stop light on 25th and right on Ocean View Drive.
Try walking this 2-3 mile creek-side, round trip trail when spring
sunlight shoots through the newly leafed canopy to illuminate
hundreds of yellow skunk cabbage. Dazzling.
There are more boardwalks to be found, of course, many
just short spans on longer walks, but all are unfailingly enchanting.
The wildlife and flora as seen from above ground level await your
viewing pleasure.
Turtle watching at Ankeny Marsh, Ankeny Hill Boardwalk.
Blind at Ankeny Hill Boardwalk.
Restored wetland at Sunset Park-Dunawi Creek
Boardwalk.
Homer Campbell Boardwalk.
Marys River Natural Park Boardwalk.
THE BENCHMARK 17.
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Majestic Yellowstone
Fall 2009
By Nancy Rockwell
Y
ellowstone
National Park
is truly a diverse
and interesting
place to visit
and hike. We
were lucky to
have Larry
Davis as our
Nancy Rockwell
guide and trip
organizer, since he grew up near the
park in Belgrade, Montana. His parents,
Rich and Norie Davis, as well as
relatives, nieces and nephews, were
very gracious and did much work
with the food and organizing. We
were fortunate enough to have
Rich, Norie, and nieces Kelsie and
Naomi join us on our trip to the
park.
built up and put on quite a show. Some of
us that were ill-prepared (and wet) were
reminded that we should always carry the
essentials!
Lake. As we began cooking dinner, another
thunderstorm came in and we ended
up cooking with people holding plastic
tablecloths over the cooks! This didn’t
stop anyone from enjoying Larry’s chili.
It was delicious, as were all our meals.
Did I mention that Larry’s mom, Norie,
is a professional candy maker? Her
homemade Almond Roca is really good!
We were hoping to see animals in the park
and we were not disappointed. On this
first day we saw a mother black bear and
two very cute cubs playing by the side of
the road. As we drove on we were amazed
We began hiking the second day with a trip
to see a huge herd of mother and baby
up Mt. Washburn to the lookout where we
bison swim across the river, with a lot of
huffing a puffing, and walk up out of the had an excellent view of the huge caldera
The Davis family hosted all 12 of
us at their home in Belgrade on
our first night and treated us to
a tremendous family and friends
BBQ. The neighbors may have been
a little skeptical when the “tent
village” sprang up on their front
lawn, but by early morning we were
packed and headed to Yellowstone.
We entered the park through the
Roosevelt Arch, which announces
that the park was dedicated in 1872
“For the Benefit and Enjoyment
of the People.” Enjoy it we did!
On our way to our campsite, we
stopped at some lovely canyons
and natural features like bubbling
mud pots, the highlight of those being
Mammoth Hot Springs. The minerals
coming from the steaming springs cause
ledges and pools to build up. Beautifully
colored bacteria thrive in the heat of the
springs and makes them an amazing
sight to see. While walking around
looking at the springs, a thunderstorm
18. THE BENCHMARK
Yellowstone participants, standing: Kelsie Peterson, Norie Davis, Richard Davis,
Elizabeth Seibert, Naomi Peterson, Larry Davis, Lelia Barlow, Bob Custer, Nancy
Rockwell, Rick Cooper, Debi Gile, Doris deLespinasse. Kneeling: Rick Quam, Randy
Selig, Caryl Uhler, Ranger Christine Soczek, Cindy Quam, Jessica Jern.
river and across the road in front of our
van. Although we did see pelicans, geese,
pronghorn sheep, deer, a coyote, and elk
later in the trip, it was hard to beat these
first experiences.
We set up camp in a very pleasant group
camp ground very near huge Yellowstone
and the surrounding mountains that gave
us an idea of the vastness of the park. At
one point on the hike we had bighorn sheep
walking along right next to us! On the hike
down, after passing through meadows filled
with wildflowers, we ended up walking along
the Yellowstone River and were able to peer
into the vast canyon named “The Grand
continued on next page
THE BENCHMARK
Fall 2009
continued from page 18
Canyon of the Yellowstone” with all its
colorful formations and steep drop-offs.
The next day was “Geyser Day” and we
joined all the tourists in the Old Faithful
area geyser basin. The area, including Old
Faithful, has boardwalks along the path
of the many geysers. We were treated to
spectacular eruptions by some, bubbling
and jumping of others, and colorful, quiet
beauty at some of the pools. The geysers
were so interesting that we spent another day
hiking into a “geyser hillside” and going to
a different geyser area that looked quite a bit
different than the Old Faithful basin.
We spent a day at the north end of the
park for a long hike beginning in the
Lamar Valley. This hike was up and down
mountains, through wildflower filled
meadows, and had several stream crossings.
It was a reminder of the diversity of the area
since it was such a contrast to the geyser
basins.
We saw a large, fresh, grizzly footprint. We
kept hoping to see a grizzly, not TOO close,
but we had no such luck. There were lots
of rodents though! Since it was a hot day, it
was great to sit with our feet in the stream
at the end of the hike.
At the end of the week we split into two
hiking groups, with one group doing a
close in hike and another going to the
top of Avalanche Peak with spectacular
mountain views. That afternoon
we were back on the tourist circuit
and visited all the beautiful spots along the
Yellowstone Canyon. The favorite spot, for
good reason, seemed to be Artist’s Point.
It is aptly named since its beautiful views
of Yellowstone Falls and the canyon have
prompted many artists to paint from that
spot.
We were all sorry to have to head home from
such a beautiful place, and we were a little
disappointed at not having seen wolves or
grizzly bears. But as we were driving out of
the park we spotted two large moose standing
in the creek close to the road, giving us a
grand view of them. It was a terrific way to
end a wonderful trip!
THE BENCHMARK 19.
Fall 2009
THE BENCHMARK
MPG Earth Day Tours
MPG Sponsored Two Tours on
Earth Day, April 22nd
Recession Gardens of Corvallis Tour
Twenty-four people (including 10 bikers) participated
in a bike and car tour organized by David Eckert,
Jane Luther and Karl Hartzell. The tour explored nine
different recessed “rain” gardens around Corvallis,
which were designed to control and treat storm
water runoff, conserve chlorine-free water, protect
the local streams as well as save money. Eckert and
horticulturist David Sandrock, Ph.D., showed the group
examples that work, examples that don’t work and
explained how one’s property can be used to revive life
back into the local ancient streams while beautifying a
yard.
Wings of Wonder Tour
This outing, led by MPG educational tour coordinator, Marilyn
Hinds, took participants on a trip to a tropical wonderland
conservatory in Polk County, near the Buena Vista ferry. “Wings of
Wonder” is Oregon’s only year-round expansive live butterfly exhibit
and on-site rearing lab. After viewing the painted lady and other
types of chrysalis,
accompanied by
an educational
explanation by the
owners, participants
then strolled
Wings of Wonder Group at Butterfly Farm.
through the display
greenhouse, which
featured many vibrantly hued free-flying exotic butterflies, frogs,
songbirds and tropical plants.
20. THE BENCHMARK
THE BENCHMARK
Fall 2009
MPG Memorial Day Camping Trip
By Barbara Loeb
This year, 19 of us met at Schwarz Park near
Dorena Lake for MPG’s annual Memorial Day
weekend camping trip. For those of you who
haven’t been there, Schwarz Park is a lovely
campground on the Row River, a short drive east
of Cottage Grove. Some campsites are shaded
by groves of stately Douglas firs, and others are
on grassy expanses that give the whole place a
sunny, open feel. On this busy weekend, most sites
were spilling over with people having fun. There
were babies, at least one woman in a walker, and
all kinds of other reminders that our parks and
campgrounds are important.
Our own temporary home consisted of five sites
lined up along the edge of the river, to which
we laid claim on Friday afternoon, May 22.
We prepared meals in separate groups, but we
gathered at the middle site each evening to imbibe
and trade stories. Our fire ring was well-supplied
with wood from Tom, Jiffy Pop from Daryl, and
marshmallows from everyone who thought to
bring some.
On Saturday, we hiked a five-mile loop along Brice
and Trestle Creeks, with 1,200 feet of elevation
gain. The trail was steep at times, so I heard a
little moaning and contributed some of my own,
but we were rewarded with close-up views of two
waterfalls. Prize wild flower sightings included
calypso lilies, patches of white iris, and a lone and
lovely deep pink trillium. The forest was as lush
as one would expect of the Northwest Coast, with
vine maples and beautiful, old growth Doug firs.
The weather was perfect.
On Sunday, those of us with less than iron
legs (that would be me and five others) took a
leisurely hike on the Row River Rail Trail, the
paved bike path that follows the old railroad line
from Dorena Lake to Cottage Grove. For lunch,
we lingered in a pretty park at Mosby Creek Trail
head, a sweet little place that is worth a stop if you
are ever nearby. Our picnic table was next to a
covered bridge and across from a house with three
carved bears, the kinds of bears that
can look corny but were just right
in that setting.
Meanwhile, Tom Bucht was leading
twelve intrepid hikers on a rigorous
hike toward June Peak. The goal
was the top of the mountain, but
their destination was still nowhere
in sight after 4.5 challenging miles
and 2,300 feet of gain. That was
when Tom declared their location
to be “mini-June” and turned the
group around for the 4.5 miles
return. They drove back into
camp in the late afternoon and
staggered out of their cars looking
tired and dusty, but their eyes were
still sparkling, and they managed
to regale us for hours with their
stories. From the sounds of it, the
hike was marked by generous
amounts of both hard work and
laughter. We never learned exactly
what was so funny, but one of the
jokes had something to do with
an old stocking ad. Some other
highlights included monkey flowers,
a beautiful field of chocolate lilies,
and vistas of the snowy Misty
Mountains.
We packed our tents on Monday
morning. Some of us took one last, short hike part way around the paved
path skirting Dorena Lake. It was a tame venture with no elevation gain,
but it was just enough. Then we were off for home. Thank you, Tom, for
another Memorial Day weekend that was enjoyable and very well planned.
If you would like to visit the Dorena Lake area, head
south past Eugene to Cottage Grove, take exit 174, and
go east on Row River Road for just a few miles. It’s
only about an hour and a half from Corvallis.
Barbara Loeb
THE BENCHMARK 21.
Fall 2009
THE BENCHMARK
NEAT STUFF FOR SALE~SUPPORT MPG!!
2010 Sierra Club Calendars
Wall Calendars $13.00
Desk Calendars $14.00
They are as beautiful as ever!
Available now!
Contact Jane Luther, [email protected],
or 541-758-8279
Wall Calendar
Desk Calendar
Marys Peak Group
T-Shirt Sales!
Show off your local Sierra Club Group by
purchasing a special MPG T-shirt!
Pre-shrunk neutral gray cotton
Women’s - S, M, L, and XL
Men’s - S, M, L, and XL
$16 each
To purchase yours, contact
Jane Luther, [email protected], or
541-758-8279
22. THE BENCHMARK
THE BENCHMARK
Fall 2009
PAST MPG OUTINGS
YAMHILL OAKS PRESERVE
On June 5, an MPG group of 13 were privileged
to be the first members of the public to tour the
Nature Conservancy’s newly-acquired 272 acre
Yamhill Oaks Preserve in the rolling hills west of
McMinnville. The preserve will protect rare plants
and wildlife in native prairie and Oak savanna
habitats, which are increasingly imperiled across
the Willamette Valley. Healthy populations of
Fender’s blue butterfly and Kincaid’s lupine are
found on the property, both of which are federally
protected species. The preserve also includes 1.5
miles of stream habitats important to fish and
wildlife in the headwaters of Deer Creek. With
the lack of trails on the new property, the group
enjoyed an icy stream crossing in bare feet and
borrowed boots.
MPG’S ANNUAL WINE TASTING TOUR
On Sunday, July 12, ten participants enjoyed
the MPG’s now annual wine tasting tour of five
Willamette Valley wineries. The leader, Steve Ford,
not only drove the rented bus, but also entertained
the group with amusing anecdotes and little-known
wine facts. Wineries visited were Van Duzer, Bethel
Heights, where participants enjoyed a picnic lunch
on the wooden deck overlooking a magnificent view
of the valley, St. Innocent, where they were treated
to a fascinating tour of the wine making facilities,
Cristom and Witness Tree wineries.
THE BENCHMARK 23.
Fall 2009
THE BENCHMARK
Get Involved!
Y
ou joined the Sierra Club
because you like the outdoor
life, or because you want to
support the environment.
The Marys Peak Group offers
opportunities to engage more
actively in both. Here are a few
areas you may wish to involve
yourself.
• Trail maintenance/building –
Interest in working on local
and regional trails? There’s
a regular schedule for trail
building and maintenance
here in the Willamette Valley.
Contact: Denise Nervik at
[email protected]
• Conservation/Sustainability
– You may be interested in
specific environmental issues,
and would be willing to attend
meetings of government
agencies to monitor their
activities and testify at
hearings. Contact: Barry Wulff
at [email protected].
• Political activism – How about
engaging in lobbying? Would
you be willing to become
involved in political issues
relating to the environment
or supporting a candidate for
election? Contact: Debra Higbee
at [email protected]
• Leading outings – enjoy
working with people in group
• Graphics/Illustration – Have
settings? How about leading an
you graphics and illustration
outing, such as a snowshoe or
skills? Have access to Adobe
ski trip, hike, rafting adventure,
InDesign on CS2 or CS3? Like
backpack or special field trip of
making displays for events and
interest? Training is available.
booths? Contact: Barry Wulff at
Contact: Doris deLespinasse at
[email protected]
[email protected]
• Fundraising – Do you like
to promote activities for
organizations? Like to meet
people? How about producing
concerts or managing a party?
Do you have fundraising skills?
Contact: Barry Wulff at
[email protected]
• Membership – Do you like to
communicate with people? Are
you able to organize tabling
events? Help assure the future
of the environment by getting
more people interested and
involved in MPG activities.
Contact: Kay Yates at
[email protected]
• Writing/photography – Do you
like to write? Would you like
to research an issue and then
write about it? Are you handy
with a digital camera? Want to
show off your camera skills?
Contact: Barry Wulff at
[email protected].
SIGN-UP FOR THE
WEEKLY EMAIL
The Marys Peak Group offers many activities other than
those listed in the Benchmark. Our weekly email announces upcoming
events and activities with complete contact information. You may
sign-up to receive the weekly email by sending a note to Jane Luther at
[email protected].
Or, if you have a Google account, you can subscribe by going
to: http://groups.google.com/group/marys-peak-group/subscribe and
choose “E-mail - send each message to me as it arrives” (the message
“Approximately 1 e-mail per day” is incorrect; MPG weekly email will
be sent once a week.)
Your email will not be shared with other entities.
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